Getting Locked on for Middle School
In continuing to strengthen our students and prepare them for the future, Mrs. Richardson lead another Life Prep session, this time about middle school. Erin (Mrs. Richardson's daughter), and Tyler, who are both St. John's alums, came to assist in answering questions and giving advice. Students were asked to write down any questions, thoughts, or concerns they had about middle school, and were reminded that every question is worth asking. Some questions that were asked were about class size, quality of food, what kinds of extracurricular activities there were, who you could talk to when you're feeling overwhelmed, and whether sixth grade was hard. Both Erin and Tyler answered that they both felt they had been prepared academically, especially writing, but missed the close connection that they had with their teachers, staff, and classmates when they were at St. John's. Tyler said, "You'll realize how well you knew everyone at St. John's. Everyone was like my brothers and sisters, not just people I went to school with." Mrs. Richardson provided each student with a combination lock to take home, and she, Mrs. Grosso, Erin, and Tyler helped the students practice opening their locks. This session was geared toward alleviating any stress or worry our fifth graders might have so they can go into middle school strong and confident in their abilities, but they also learned that their time at St. John's and the friends and memories they've made here, grade after grade, are both irreplaceable and priceless.